The 8 most amazing sunset spots in Florence

Florence may be the birthplace of the Renaissance, but it’s also a masterclass in sunset staging. As the sun dips behind the Tuscan hills, the Arno River sparkles like prosecco and terracotta rooftops go full Caravaggio with dramatic shadows.

This guide to the best sunset spots in Florence will enlighten you about Florence’s most sun-kissed hilltops, bridges, towers, and gardens — whether it’s your first time in the city, or an inevitable return visit. From panoramic terraces to the best rooftop in Florence for watching the sunset, these views will stay with you long after the sun goes down.

1. Piazzale Michelangelo

This is Florence’s most famous sunset perch — and for good reason. High above the city, Piazzale Michelangelo serves up a sweeping view of the Arno River, the Ponte Vecchio, and Brunelleschi’s dome all in one frame. Come for the view, stay for the collective gasp when the sky turns peachy pink.

Know before you go

While you’re up there, grab a gelato from a nearby stand, wander through the rose garden below, or continue upward to San Miniato al Monte for even more peaceful vibes.

Address

Piazzale Michelangelo, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

2. Ponte Santa Trinita

Everyone crowds the Ponte Vecchio, but locals know that the neighboring Ponte Santa Trinita is where the magic happens. From here, you can see the Ponte Vecchio bathed in golden light while the Arno reflects the melting sunset overhead.

It’s an easy, scenic stroll from the city center — just far enough to escape the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds, but close enough to catch the same breathtaking show. As the sky fades, street musicians often set the mood, and the river sparkles like Florence is trying to outdo itself one last time before nightfall.

Know before you go

Afterward, wander into the nearby Oltrarno district for dinner in a trattoria or aperitivo in one of the cozy piazzas. This area’s known for artisan workshops and local flair.

Address

Ponte Santa Trinita, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

3. Boboli Gardens

These sprawling Renaissance gardens behind the Pitti Palace are filled with sculptures, fountains, and cypress-lined paths, offering one of the best outdoor experiences in Florence — but it’s the western edges near the Kaffeehaus that deliver jaw-dropping sunset scenes over the city and hills beyond.

Come early to explore the full garden, then grab a shady bench and watch the light dance over Florence’s rooftops like a Botticelli painting coming to life.

Know before you go

It closes at 6:30 PM, so check sunset time against last admission.

Address

Piazza de' Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

Opening hours

Daily, 8:15 AM–6:30 PM (closing hours vary by season)

4. Torre di Arnolfo (Palazzo Vecchio Tower)

If you’re after height and history, an iconic Florence landmark is a good place to start, offering one of the best rooftops in Florence to see the sunset. Climb the Palazzo Vecchio’s tower for a sunset like no other. From this 95-meter perch, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view over Piazza della Signoria and the rest of Florence, just as the light starts to glow all golden and dramatic.

The viewing platform is small and standing-room only, so while the views are spectacular, you won’t be able to stay long — plan to arrive early for the best light and a few uninterrupted minutes at the top.

Know before you go

Once you’re back on ground level, explore the piazza, admire the outdoor sculpture gallery, or pop into a wine bar and sip Chianti that’s grown in the rolling vineyards that are lit up in the distance.

Address

Piazza della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Opening hours

Daily, 9:00 AM–7:00 PM (last admission 6:00 PM)

5. Basilica di San Miniato al Monte

Less crowded than Piazzale Michelangelo but perched even higher, this Romanesque church offers one of the best sunset views in Florence. The white-and-green marble glistens in the setting sun, and the terrace overlooks the peaceful grandeur of the city rooftops.

Most visitors gather on the broad stone steps just outside the church — a perfect spot to sit, relax, and watch the skyline shift from gold to indigo. It’s easily got one of the best views in Florence, with fewer crowds and a much calmer atmosphere.

Know before you go

Inside, the church offers beautifully preserved mosaics and a peaceful crypt, providing a quiet moment of reflection that pairs perfectly with the panoramic views outside.

Address

Via delle Porte Sante, 34, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

Opening hours

Daily, 9:30 AM–1:00 PM, 3:00 PM–7:00 PM

6. Fiesole Hills

For a true Tuscan countryside escape, head to the town of Fiesole, just a 20-minute bus ride from central Florence. From here, the whole valley unfurls below you, and sunsets take on a softer, more pastoral feel.

Explore the Roman amphitheater, sip wine at a hilltop café, or hike the surrounding trails for an epic view of Florence’s Renaissance towers and domes cloaked in warm evening light. One of the best spots to watch the sunset is from the terrace near the Monastery of San Francesco, where olive groves, cypress trees, and golden hills stretch as far as the eye can see.

Know before you go

The best views are from the Monastery of San Francesco.

Address

Fiesole, 50014 Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

7. Giardino Bardini

Often overshadowed by its neighbor, Boboli Gardens, Giardino Bardini offers an equally stunning, less crowded sunset experience. For the best sunset view, make your way to the quiet benches by the terraced gardens, whose blooming pergolas framing the city’s rooftops as the sky begins to glow.

Along with a panoramic view of the Arno and Duomo, the garden includes an elegant villa and seasonal art exhibitions, making it a peaceful, culture-rich setting for a golden hour stroll.

Know before you go

It closes as early as 4:00 PM during the winter months, so check sunset time against last admission.

Address

Costa S. Giorgio, 2, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

Opening hours

Daily, 10:00 AM–7:00 PM from April to October

Daily, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM from November to March

8. Bell Tower of Santa Maria del Fiore (Giotto’s Campanile)

If you want sunset views with a cardio challenge, climbing Giotto’s Campanile is a must. This 14th-century bell tower beside the Duomo offers striking views over the city — and because you’re next to the dome, it’s actually one of the best places to photograph it at golden hour.

After ascending the 414 narrow steps (no elevator here), you’ll reach a series of open-air viewing platforms where Florence stretches out in every direction. From this angle, the Duomo’s tiled dome practically glows, and the city’s terracotta rooftops seem to catch fire in the fading light.

Know before you go

There’s no elevator — it’s 414 steps to the top.

Address

Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Opening hours

Daily: 8:15 AM–7:45 PM